Vatican Clock

I never cease to be amazed at the beautiful work the artisans created in the spectacular buildings and monuments in Italy.  This clock, which sits atop the colonnade surrounding St. Peter's Square, is an example of magnificent craftmanship.

"Vatican Clock"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

The Pieta

If you've been to the Vatican you've probably seen Michelangelo's sculpture "The Pieta".  Beautifully executed in white Carrera marble, it depicts the Virgin Mary holding Christ after he was taken down from the cross.  This is a mosiac replica of her face.  Mosaic "paintings" are  big ticket items in the stores around the Vatican.  Small pieces of colored Italian glass in a myriad of colors take the place of paint. And they're all meticulously done.

"The Pieta"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

The Pieta

This might be more appropriate for Easter but I think this is one of Michelangelo's greatest pieces of sculpture.  Finished in 1499 and the only piece where his signature is visable (it's on the sash the Madonna is wearing) the Pieta is an intricately and delicately carved piece of marble.  It's the first thing you see when you enter St. Peter's Basilica.

"The Pieta"  © Kathy Dunham 2009

St. Peter's Basilica

If you visit the Vatican while in Rome, be prepared to do a lot of walking and standing on marble floors. “Why should I care?” you ask. Because by the end of the tour your feet, legs and maybe even your knees will be screaming at you. I know. And I'd give anything for a good foot massage right now. But it was worth it. The art collections, the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and of course, the Basilica itself are awesome. Regardless of your religion, this masterpiece of architecture and art will blow you away. This shot is of the main altar at the very back of the church. The golden window above is not stained glass but solid alabaster. Beautiful, isn't it?

“St. Peter's Basilica” © Kathy Dunham 2009

Vatican Dome

It took more than 120 years from laying the cornerstone to the consecration of St. Peter's, 7 Popes and artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini to complete this marvelous edifice. An architectural wonder, this is a must see when in Rome.

"Vatican Dome" © Kathy Dunham 2009